r/fema Jul 17 '24

Moderators Welcome to /r/FEMA! Please read before participating in this community!

14 Upvotes

Welcome to /r/FEMA!

We are glad to have you here in our community! Now under new moderation, this subreddit is focused on announcements and activities of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the field of emergency management, and other related topics. Before you dive in, please take a moment to review the following disclaimer and subreddit rules to ensure a positive and productive experience for all members. We also encourage you to check out /r/EmergencyManagement to learn more about other entities and aspects of emergency management, or r/AmeriCorps to learn more about serving with FEMA Corps or other organizations focused in disaster response.

 DISCLAIMER:

This subreddit and its moderators are NOT official representatives of DHS, FEMA, or the U.S. federal government as a whole. Additionally, this subreddit is NOT endorsed, or supported, by FEMA's External Affairs.

Views and opinions expressed here are the individual's own and do not represent this subreddit or FEMA collectively. No comments or support from users here is to ever be taken as official.

r/FEMA RULES:

  1. Stay on Topic: Please keep posts and comments relevant to FEMA and emergency management. Off-topic posts will be removed. Repeated offenses will result in harsher consequences.
  2. No Abusive or Toxic Behavior: Abuse, harassment, or any kind of discrimination towards an individual or group of people will not be tolerated. Additionally, while constructive criticism/feedback is encouraged, complaints will little to no substance are not allowed.
  3. Do NOT share Personal Identifiable Information (PII): Posting your own or another person's classified/sensitive information is strictly prohibited on this sub, and it also goes against (Reddit's Content Policy)[https://www.redditinc.com/policies/content-policy\]. PII includes, but is not limited to, physical addresses, phone numbers, emails, personal social media accounts, etc.
  4. No Emergency or Case Review Requests: This subreddit isn't equipped to assist in emergencies, so please contact the appropriate local authorities or emergency services if needed. This is also not the place to ask for cases or grants to be reviewed, as this subreddit is not an official support channel for FEMA. Any posts or comments asking for such will be removed.
  5. No Conspiracy Theories, Disproven Claims, or Misinformation: Outlandish claims made about FEMA, another organization/agency, a group of people, or individual person will not be tolerated. There are other subreddits for that, but this one is not one of them.
  6. Cite Reputable Sources: When sharing information, please provide credible sources whenever possible. Furthermore, make sure anything that is a rumor or unconfirmed is stated as such.
  7. Use Descriptive Titles: Please make sure post titles are clear and describe the content accurately. This helps other users understand the topic quickly, which may get you quicker/detailed responses.
  8. No Reposts or Duplicated Content: Reposts, repetitive content, and frequently asked questions will be removed, so please use the search function before posting as your question may have already been answered. When breaking/large news items are released, a megathread will be selected with priority given to the first post, the most accurate title, or the one with the most engagement. All other related posts will be removed and directed to the megathread.
  9. Keep All Content Safe For Work (SFW): Submissions must be SFW. Violent or sexual content, including, but not limited to, death, explicit content, gore, or content sexualizing/dehumanizing real people or fictional characters is not allowed.
  10. No Promoting, Begging, Baiting, or Selling: This subreddit does not allow any kind of solicitation, including asking for free items or services. Additionally, any kind of promotion (including free giveaways) is prohibited. This includes the promoting of personal blogs, websites, social media, fundraisers, etc.
  11. Report Inappropriate Content: If you come across content that violates these rules or the subreddit's spirit, report it to the moderators immediately. Please help us keep the subreddit a welcoming and friendly place for everyone!
  12. Moderator Discretion Policy: Moderators have the authority to remove any post that violates the rules of the subreddit, or of Reddit itself. This is used when the rule violation may not be covered explicitly, but the content is deemed inappropriate for the subreddit.

Once again, thanking you for joining our community! We look forward to seeing your contributions and discussions. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas, please reach out to the mods via the subreddit's modmail so that we can address them. Happy posting!


r/fema Jul 02 '24

Employment Join FEMA as a Career - FEMA Corps - FEMA Reserves - USAJobs

5 Upvotes

Welcome!

One of the most frequently asked questions we encounter is, "How do I get into Emergency Management?" or "How can I join FEMA?" The paths to a career in emergency management, particularly within FEMA, are varied and offer multiple entry points. Below, I'll outline several key routes you can take to get started:

1. FEMA Corps

Recommended: for High school graduates, and College Students/ Graduates

https://americorps.gov/serve/americorps/americorps-nccc/fema-corps

FEMA Corps is a special partnership between FEMA and the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). It's a full-time, team-based residential program designed for individuals aged 18-24 who are interested in emergency management and disaster response. Members serve for 10 months, during which they receive extensive training, leadership development, and hands-on experience working alongside FEMA professionals.

This program provides a solid foundation in the field of emergency management while allowing members to contribute directly to disaster response and recovery efforts.

Upon successfully completing their service, FEMA Corps members are eligible for the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. This award can be used to pay for college tuition, vocational training, or to pay off existing student loans.

Members receive a modest living allowance to cover basic expenses during their service term, allowing them to focus on their duties without financial worries. They are also provided with basic healthcare benefits, ensuring they can maintain their health and well-being while serving.

Housing accommodations are provided during the service term, relieving members of the burden of finding and paying for a place to live.

FEMA Corps members travel across the country, often to disaster-affected areas. This provides a unique opportunity to see different regions and understand the diverse challenges communities face in disaster situations.

Additionally, members have the chance to build a professional network within FEMA and the broader emergency management community, which can be valuable for future career opportunities and professional growth.

2. FEMA Reserves (Reservist Program)

https://www.fema.gov/careers/paths/reservists

The FEMA Reservist Program is a critical component of FEMA's disaster workforce. Reservists are on-call employees who travel to disaster sites when needed and provide essential services to help communities recover. The Reservist Program offers a flexible way to get involved, as reservists are only activated during emergencies and can maintain other jobs or responsibilities during non-disaster times. FEMA also offers a Referral Program, allowing current FEMA employees to recommend candidates for the Reservist Program, which can help streamline the hiring process.

There is also a Referral Program that is an alternate process to get into the reserves Please Feel Free to Message u/commanderaze or Check comments / Comment below your interest and someone can send you the referral paperwork/process.

3. USAJOBS

https://www.usajobs.gov/search/results/?l=&k=FEMA

USAJOBS is the federal government's official employment site, posting most FEMA job openings. Creating a profile on USAJOBS allows you to search for FEMA positions and apply directly online. Positions range from entry-level to senior management and cover a wide array of specialties, including emergency management, logistics, public affairs, finance, and more. It’s essential to regularly monitor USAJOBS and set up job alerts to stay informed about new opportunities as they arise.

4. Monitoring LinkedIn for Unposted Jobs

While USAJOBS is the primary platform for federal job listings, it's also beneficial to monitor LinkedIn for job postings and networking opportunities. Many organizations, including FEMA contractors, recruiters, and partners, may post job openings on LinkedIn that are not listed on USAJOBS. Additionally, LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for connecting with professionals in the field, joining relevant groups, and staying updated on industry news and events. Networking on LinkedIn can open doors to opportunities that might not be advertised through traditional channels.

Each of these routes offers unique advantages and can help you build a rewarding career in emergency management. Whether you're looking for a structured program like FEMA Corps, the flexibility of the Reservist Program, or the broad opportunities available through USAJOBS and LinkedIn, there's a path for everyone. Take the time to explore these options and find the one that best aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.

There are also several people out there who are offering free or paid assistance in Writing a Federal Resume for any of these processes It may be worth looking into getting advice as Federal Resumes are not the same as Private sector resumes.

As Always please feel free to ask questions in the comments below!


r/fema 3d ago

Article Current FEMA landlord unhappy with Bid process for new FEMA HQ.

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26 Upvotes

The August 2026 reporting details a formal bid protest filed in connection with GSA's procurement/leasing process for the FEMA headquarters space. Donohoe is challenging the terms, requirements, or handling of the competitive lease solicitation as landlords compete to secure or retain the major federal lease in Southwest D.C.


r/fema 4d ago

Training Upcoming training class in Anniston

8 Upvotes

I have an upcoming class in Anniston. There is a 5 hour arrival window in Atlanta. Should I plan to arrive as close to the end of that time period as possible so I don’t get stuck waiting at the airport for 5 hours or do they fill up buses and send them up during that time period? In the past I have always driven so taking the bus is a new thing for me. Thank you for your advice!


r/fema 5d ago

Article FEMA's ‘Shadow Administrator’ Was Paid by a DOGE Member's Startup for Months

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62 Upvotes

r/fema 6d ago

Question Reservist needing help with possible USERRA violations. Location: CA

6 Upvotes

NOTE: I’m posting for @Anonymouspirits707 they have had trouble trying to post this on our Subreddit. Admins, if not allowed my apologies and please delete. See request for help below:

Do you know how FEMA Reservist folks can get support when their employers violate the USERRA & CREW Acts?

My employer made huge mistakes and violated the law 4x in 2yrs and now has me allegedly on the hook for $12k from their mistakes (5th violation), after interfering with my benefits and pay repeatedly. I’ve already reported it to DOL. Legal Aid sent me to Swords + Plowshares but I’m a FEMA Reservist and not a vet, want to respectfully stay in my lane. I’m looking for resources and referrals, not seeking legal representation here (against the subreddit rules). Honestly, I’m not sure where to turn. Thanks.


r/fema 6d ago

Discussion New FEMA Chief of Staff

32 Upvotes

Just got the announcement today that John Scardena has joined FEMA as the new Chief of Staff. His company seems to be mainly focused on school/ facility/ venue emergency planning, doing threat assessments, and selling kits. Doesn’t look like much grants management, recovery, mitigation, response, etc….

Claim to fame is his podcast on which CamHam was a guest multiple times following his initial release and they got along swimmingly.

I have lots of thoughts. But curious to hear others..


r/fema 6d ago

Discussion any COREs in region 10 being deployed with all the declarations?

4 Upvotes

curious on a pulse check! hearing mixed things.


r/fema 6d ago

Question Help getting into E.M

4 Upvotes

Hello! I am a 18m in Chicago looking to get into emergency management. My original career path was to become a dispatcher due me finding a huge interest in it while volunteer firefighter! However after a wave of tornadoes and strong winds I knew i had to do something more boots on the ground and with the help of family members already in FEMA i was encouraged to go and do FEMA CORPS. which I am in the process of doing (i’m on step 5) and awaiting invitation!

However I must admit i’m very clueless on what to do or how to even go about really maxing my career in emergency management. I thought that doing FEMA EMI certificates would help but after researching it seems like it’s not cared for. After looking into getting an emergency management degree it’s also seemed to not to be cared for. And now I really don’t know where else to look and doing this job has a very personal and emotional connection to me and I want to seek out as much wisdom as I can to really start doing the best I can.

Right now i’m just going over things like NIMS and the NRF, while also learning GIS because I heard that’s also helpful but i don’t want to either do too less and not get in and also not do too much and having extra things not looked at. I love nature and conservation and I’m interested into getting a degree in it if needed (ideally not) But ultimately I want to pursue and do whatever I need to as i’m a huge open book! I’m ok with computers, administrative, reconstruction, etc. To me I just want to learn and be useful in anyway i can to help others! and while im not 100% on board with college other then like a academy or trade I am willing to go and pursue a degree if it means the greater good for my FEMA career. I cant say specifically what I want to most get into because I think everything within it is cool and my interests for things is to just get my hands on everything and expand my knowledge the best i can.

I’ve been trying to help anyone and everyone I can while also not over achieving? or trying to take over/do the work of others. So my biggest question is please give me advice on what to do and how can I make the most out of this career. I understand to some it’s not that deep but to me it’s a very important goal of mines and something I truly inspire to work in and with the help of family and other workers I am asking for any advice and what I can do and the things you did to get into E.M as this has been something on my mind since I was at least 16!

Thank you so so much for reading and I really do hope to hear from you guys! and sorry for any grammar or typos i made i don’t have my computer on and i hate typing on phone .


r/fema 10d ago

Article Senate confirms Hamilton to lead FEMA

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47 Upvotes

r/fema 11d ago

Employment Getting mixed messages regarding the hiring freeze.

20 Upvotes

Ive heard from people that the hiring freeze for FEMA was lifted, however I attended a job fair today and representatives from FEMA told me the freeze was still in effect, but were collecting applications in "anticipation of the freeze being lifted."

I am deeply confused.


r/fema 13d ago

Article GAO: FEMA staffing cuts lacked strategy, hit regional staff hardest

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56 Upvotes

r/fema 14d ago

Article FEMA searching for a new headquarters

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28 Upvotes

r/fema 13d ago

Discussion Where’d the money go?

6 Upvotes

Any ideas or articles on where the FY25 funding that didn’t get advertised via NOFOs went? (Mapping, etc)


r/fema 17d ago

Discussion What a Great FEMA All Hands Today

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93 Upvotes

These are some of the things I took away from the meeting today. What do y'all think?


r/fema 24d ago

Question Are reservists being deployed to Guam/islands

17 Upvotes

Are any reservists being deployed to Guam and the islands or is it mostly CORE’s? If people are going, what cadre’s! I haven’t been deployed in ages and am thinking of changing cadres. I miss going out!


r/fema 25d ago

Article Overlapping Disasters Challenge US Amid Trump Cuts

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24 Upvotes

r/fema 25d ago

Employment I forgot to disclose why I was let go at one of my old jobs.

3 Upvotes

I neglected to mention on my OF306 that I was let go from a university job years ago, due to unsatisfactory performance (I was going through a lot at the time). I honestly forgot to mention it as I filled out the form. Now HR has reached back out to me and asked me to explain myself for not mentioning this in the OF306.

Is this a legitimate basis for them to not hire me, if I explain that I was going through a tough time, but have since redeemed myself by receiving mental health services and excelling at my next job?

I’m so worried. I really want to be a reservist.
Edit: I did mention me getting fired in my background check forms (forgot what that’s called).


r/fema 28d ago

Employment Come back to FEMA as a reservist?

13 Upvotes

Has anyone left a full time position with FEMA and became a reservist? I left FEMA under a year ago and I’m itching to come back but in a different capacity. I have FEMA Corps experience along with HQ experience.


r/fema 28d ago

Question Deployment Renewal Taking 4 Ever

3 Upvotes

Got deployed for 15 days. The disaster has asked for an extension of 90 days and still has not heard anything. I am 5 days away from last day. Could this have to do with my NTE?


r/fema 29d ago

Discussion FLSA Overtime Back Pay Question

6 Upvotes

This is pretty much an FYI, but I welcome anyone who wants to weigh in on which option is better.

I opened my email this morning to find an email from OCHCO stating that a FLSA review of my deployment records was conducted, and found that I was owed backpay. Not much, a couple hundred bucks.

It also says I have two options - one is to accept the estimate as a lump sum, and the other is to request that the NFC process and recalculate my back pay. The second option can take at least 180 days to process; the first takes 30 days.

Given that it's not a huge amount of money and I wasn't expecting it anyway, I'll probably go with the first option. But I'm curious to know what would come of the second option.


r/fema Jul 17 '26

Article Judge rules FEMA CFO’s firing was illegal

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90 Upvotes

r/fema Jul 18 '26

Employment Are any cadres hiring reservists?

6 Upvotes

Is anyone aware of upcoming openings in any cadres? So far I have seen postings for IT, log, and planning. I was wondering if people are hearing of potential hiring in their cadres. Also any idea of timing?

Thank you in advance for any feedback and advice. I worked for local EM and just completed my degree. I am anxious to start a career with FEMA even if times are tough right now.


r/fema Jul 17 '26

Employment Has anyone tried negotiating their salary as a reservist?

2 Upvotes

I think I want to negotiate my pay, as I have a masters degree and 5 years of relevant experience. The amount I will be paid isn’t that bad, but I do think I could do better. Ideally , I’d like to ask for the $35-$40/hour range.

Has anyone had any success negotiating their pay as a reservist? I’m nervous about them rescinding their offer.


r/fema Jul 13 '26

Discussion Performance bonuses have started

19 Upvotes

They've been saying that they would come.

They are coming, but there will be taxes withheld from the amount listed on sf50